I am Michael Campbell

My diagnosis story is not that different from a lot of others I’ve read. After a year of weakening legs, arms and hands, shortness of breath, lots of inconclusive tests, and a week at the Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale AZ, I was told I have respiratory/limb onset ALS.

Currently, I’m not in terrible shape. I sometimes swerve while walking; would fail a heal toe balance test, stone sober (it would be kinda funny if I innocently got pulled over for drunk driving, “No officer I haven’t been drinking, I have ALS.”); grumble that Sisyphus had it easy when climbing hills or worse stairs; hesitate before sitting in a chair worried I won’t be able to get up (without assistance), and will never play Rachmaninov’s Second Piano Concerto at Carnegie Hall. Full discloser, I can’t play the piano but have always thought I’d like to – thanks ALS.

I’ve found getting a terminal diagnosis is quite a mule kick to the head, and I have to admit, it takes a lot to stay focused on the small things. I need to finish several projects I’ve committed to and promised to complete in the next few months – before I officially retire from my rewired retirement.

As the saying goes, and immortalized in the musical Godspell, I’m taking this thing day by day. I do have a pretty strong faith in the big man/woman upstairs, which I’m certain will be comforting as the days, weeks, months and hopefully years come at us.

I’ve been phasing in the 3 R’s regime and sent off a genetic test kit. I’ve even got a daily pill box for the first time – #accessorizing.

I’m on the far side of 60. Created a fair share of Super Bowl commercials, filmed in far off places, met heroes and scoundrels, had my illustrations published in newspapers and magazines, started businesses and wrote a book. And most importantly, I’ve loved and been loved.

My life has been an amazing journey filled with wonderful people, love and joy. However, I’m greedy, I want more of it, and will keep doing everything I can to keep going.